Vladimir: "There aren't enough words to describe my gratitude"

My name is Vladimir. I am 22 years old and I live in a small town nearby Haifa. I was born in Moldova (the former Soviet Union), and in 1991, when I was 3 years old, I immigrated with my family to Israel.

After graduating from high school, I was recruited to the army. After passing various examinations I joined the Navy's 3rd flotilla. Though I had the choice to begin my academic studies before my military service, I had decided that it would be more important and significant to contribute to the security of the country and the Jewish people, and to serve as a soldier in a combat unit. I have served for three years as a weapon systems operator in INS KIDON, which is one of the navy's battle ships that participate in the important mission of keeping Israel's marine border safe.

I finished my military service a few months ago, at the rank of First Sergeant. Today, I am studying electrical engineering at a university. I am glad that I got the opportunity to enlarge my knowledge in such an interesting field which has a daily affect on our lives. Furthermore, I am volunteering at the local center in our town, helping kids in the third grade to make their school assignments. To my mind, it is not only a wonderful way for me to contribute to others but also a great chance to experience new things.

Moreover, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for making it possible for me to acquire higher education and to choose this path. There aren't enough words to describe my gratitude, and I believe that this scholarship will give me the tools to study and reach high achievements. I also would like to thank you for supporting the IDF and the Israeli soldiers, and for saying that it is indeed important to serve in the army and contribute to the security of the country.